Following a meeting between U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and top Russian officials, the U.S. and Russia initiated steps to enhance diplomatic relations. The initial step involves restoring full functionality of diplomatic missions in both Washington and Moscow.

Post-meeting, Secretary Rubio stated that restoring normal operations of diplomatic facilities is crucial for continued progress. He outlined three additional steps: forming a high-level team to negotiate an end to the war in Ukraine (though he didn’t specify if Lt. Gen. Keith Kellogg would lead it), engaging with President Putin and the Kremlin, and eventually involving the European Union in the sanctions lifting process.

Rubio didn’t detail the specifics of sanctions relief, but emphasized the EU’s necessary participation given their own sanctions. Concerns have grown regarding EU exclusion as the Trump administration engages more directly with Moscow. While Kellogg declined to confirm EU inclusion in negotiations following the Munich Security Conference, Rubio asserted that no party is being sidelined.

Rubio highlighted President Trump’s campaign promise to end the conflict and the potential benefits for the U.S., Europe, Ukraine, and the world. The meeting’s outcome was a commitment to continued engagement among Rubio, Lavrov, Michael Waltz, Steven Witkoff, and Yuri Ushakov to ensure productive negotiations.

Neither the Kremlin nor the EU immediately responded to inquiries. Zelenskyy cancelled his trip to Saudi Arabia, reportedly to counter any perceived legitimacy to the U.S.-Russia talks held without Ukrainian representation. Kellogg’s team confirmed a planned meeting with Zelenskyy in Kyiv this week.

Echoing some EU leaders, Zelenskyy stressed the need for coordinated efforts with Kyiv in any ceasefire negotiations. He emphasized the joint involvement of Ukraine, Europe (including the EU, Turkey, and the UK), and the U.S. in discussions to shape the future of the region. Reports indicated European leaders plan a second emergency summit on Ukraine’s security. The State Department didn’t immediately respond to requests for comment.